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Robert A. MacDonald

Robert MacDonald is a partner and trademark agent in the Ottawa office of Gowling WLG, and serves as co-leader of the firm's Intellectual Property Group.

Robert specializes in assisting clients with clearing, protecting and enforcing their brands in the Canadian market. He has over 30 years of experience in all areas of trademark law, including prosecution, licensing, oppositions and litigation.

Robert is known for taking a collaborative, team-based approach to the delivery of legal services. He is certified by the Law Society of Upper Canada (LSUC) as a Specialist in Intellectual Property Law (Trademarks), and also served on its Committee for the Certification of Specialists in Intellectual Property.

As a leader in his field, Robert consistently achieves recognition in prominent legal directories. He is listed in Chambers Global 2018 and Legal 500 Canada 2018 for Intellectual Property, and was a recipient of a 2018 Client Choice Award for his commitment to client service and ability to find practical solutions to complex problems. Client commentary on Robert in support of the award included:

"Rob and his team never let the client down; they are responsive, fast, diligent, detailed and attentive to client needs." … "Rob is sharp, knowledgeable and responsive; he provides practical, business-oriented and reliable advice."

Robert's insight is frequently sought as a speaker at events held by the LSUC, as well as other prominent groups such as the Intellectual Property Institute of Canada (IPIC). He is an active member of various organizations and is currently the Chair of the Intellectual Asset Management Team within MARQUES, the Association of European Trade Mark Owners.

Robert has served as a lecturer for the Advanced Practical Trademarks Course offered by McGill University and the IPIC. He also shares his expertise with others by regularly contributing articles to a variety of professional publications.

In his spare time, Robert has a keen interest in music and has served as the Chairman of the Board of the Thirteen Strings Chamber Orchestra for many years.

Expertise

Career & Recognition

One of the most respected practitioners in Canada - a 'rare breed' and among the very best on account of his combination of deep trademark prosecution expertise and enforcement expertise.
- World Trademark Review 1000

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